Toowoomba celebrated the Queensland Multicultural Recognition Act passed on 16 February 2016. Over 60 participants who engaged keenly in the discussion attended the forum which was organised by TIMS and USQ on 8 June.

"I'm very proud of the role this University has played in multiculturalism…which is one of the great strengths of this nation," Professor Thomas said in her opening welcome.

Toowoomba Regional Council mayor Paul Antonio (pic below right) said in his speech "Our Toowoomba region is a rich tapestry of many different cultures. This legislation is important for the region and for the future of the state," (To download the Mayor's Speech Notes click here).

Wayne Briscoe, Executive Director of Stakeholder Engagement and Communication at the Department of Communities said "The Act, for the first time, gives formal recognition to cultural diversity".

Mr William Conwell, Multicultural Coordinator, USQ (pic last row right) greeted the guests and was the emcee.

TIMS President Gitie House said "the passing of the Act held great significance for Queenslanders, especially those who were settling in to a new country".

The 11th Toowoomba Languages & Cultures Festival to be held on 14 August, Sunday was launched on 9 May by the Mayor, Paul Antonio along with Gitie House President TIMS, Francis Xavier President Pasifika Toowoomba, Maria Chong Nee President Samoa Group of Toowoomba, Kila Xavier President Toowoomba PNG Group and Peter Munster Director Student Engagement & Leadership, USQ.